Outdoor surface cleaning apparatus with spray mechanism

ABSTRACT

An outdoor surface cleaning apparatus having a handle, a power head with a prime mover, an attachment head having a cleaning attachment, and a spray mechanism. The spray mechanism includes a first fluid input, a second fluid input, a cleaning fluid output, and a mixing assembly. The mixing assembly is in fluid communication with the first fluid input, the second fluid input, and the cleaning solution output.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to Hong Kong Application No.22020002067.9, entitled “OUTDOOR SURFACE CLEANING APPARATUS WITH SPRAYMECHANISM,” filed on Jan. 30, 2020, the contents of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to an outdoor surface cleaningapparatus. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a patiocleaner having a spray mechanism for discharging cleaning solution.

BACKGROUND

Outdoor surface cleaning apparatuses are a specific class of outdoorproducts designed to treat outdoor surfaces, such as patio or paversurfaces and joints, which are more rugged and less delicate than indoorsurfaces. These outdoor surfaces and joints can become soiled withstubborn dirt, weeds, and/or grease that are harder to remove than dirton indoor surfaces.

Manually operated paver push brooms and electric pressure washers areexamples of conventional outdoor surface cleaning apparatuses. A paverpush broom generally includes a fixed brush with stiff bristles arrangedat an end of a broom stick. Dirt on a surface can be removed byscrubbing the surface with the bristles, optionally with cleaningsolution or powder applied to the outdoor surface to be cleaned. Apressure washer, on the other hand, generally includes a nozzle thatdirects pressurized liquid to the surface to dislodge dirt and greasefrom the surface. These conventional outdoor surface cleaningapparatuses are usually dedicated outdoor apparatuses adapted for only asingle outdoor cleaning operation. These apparatuses are not readilyconvertible for different surface cleaning applications.

Some recently developed outdoor surface cleaning apparatuses include oneor more brushings element and water outlets. However, the waterdischarging mechanism typically discharges water unidirectionally to thefront of the apparatus only. The water discharged is not isolated fromthe power head and the driving elements. As the motor and gearbox maynot be waterproof, overtime water may cause damage to the motor andgearbox. Further, while conventional outdoor surface cleaningapparatuses can clean floors effectively, they may not be able toeffectively clean the surface of walls, or the risers of stairs.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an improved outdoor surfacecleaning apparatus that seeks to address at least some of the abovementioned problems. Furthermore, other desirable features andcharacteristics will become apparent from the subsequent detaileddescription and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings and this background of the disclosure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Provided herein is a surface cleaning apparatus with spray mechanism,which is capable of spraying cleaning solution.

According to certain aspects, the surface cleaning apparatus comprises ahandle; a power head with a prime mover; an attachment head having acleaning attachment; and a spray mechanism having a first fluid input, asecond fluid input, and a cleaning fluid output. The spray mechanismfurther comprises a mixing assembly in fluid communication with thefirst fluid input, the second fluid input, and the cleaning solutionoutput.

According to certain aspects, the cleaning solution output comprises atleast a brush nozzle and a side nozzle; the brush nozzle is configuredto spray cleaning solution onto a surface in front of the cleaningattachment or directly onto the cleaning attachment; and the side nozzleis configured to spray cleaning solution onto the surface in front ofthe cleaning attachment or an adjacent surface.

According to certain aspects, the cleaning solution output comprises atleast a discharging bar having holes arranged horizontally along alongitudinal length of the discharging bar, thereby cleaning solution isdischarged to the cleaning attachment.

According to certain aspects, the first fluid input is a water inletassembly comprising a hose dock and a control panel. The control panelfurther comprises a lever that is rotatable along a circumference of thecontrol panel for selecting between a waterless mode, a water only mode,or a diluted detergent mode.

According to certain aspects, the mixing assembly is positioned at thehandle.

According to certain aspects, the second fluid input further comprises adetergent dock configured for attaching a detergent bottle.

According to certain aspects, the mixing assembly is positioned along atube assembly, wherein the tube assembly is arranged between the handleand the power head. The mixing assembly further comprises an integratedtank arranged in-line with the tube assembly; a transparent window isprovided on a wall of the integrated tank with volume indicators; and ahinged cap and a stopper are provided at top of the integrated tank orat front side of the integrated tank.

According to certain aspects, the mixing assembly further comprises aventuri tube having a contraction section, a diffusion section, and athroat section; the contraction section is coupled to a first hoseconnecting to the first fluid input; the diffusion section is coupled toa second hose connecting to the cleaning fluid output; and the throatsection is configured to draw detergent from the second fluid inputusing venturi effect, thereby water flowing through the venturi tube ismixed with the detergent to obtain diluted detergent.

According to certain aspects, the second hose has an inner diameter in arange between 7 mm and 12 mm, and an outer diameter in a range between10.5 mm and 16 mm.

According to certain aspects, the control panel further comprisesvalves, and two outlet ports; the first outlet port is coupled to afirst inlet port of a Y-shape connector for transporting water; and thesecond outlet port is coupled to a second inlet port of the Y-shapeconnector via the venturi tube and a check valve.

According to certain aspects, the cleaning attachment is at leastpartially covered by a guard arranged between a left lateral end portionand a right lateral end portion of the power head. The guard is attachedto a rubber squeegee that is extended from a back side of the guard withan adjustable height for controlling a flow of cleaning solution on asurface.

According to certain aspects, the surface cleaning apparatus furthercomprises a rotary knob for adjusting a flow of cleaning solution.

According to certain aspects, the surface cleaning apparatus furthercomprises a side brush attachable to a side of the cleaning attachmentthat is perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the cleaning attachment,thereby the side brush allows brushing of a surface in a lateraldirection.

According to certain aspects, the cleaning attachment comprises a brushhead and a circular side brush attachable to the brush head, which iscoupled to the power head for transferring a torque such that thecircular side brush allows brushing of a surface in a lateral direction.

According to certain aspects, the cleaning attachment comprises a brushhead and a dome-shaped brush attachable to the brush head, which iscoupled to the power head for transferring a torque such that thedome-shaped brush allows brushing of a surface in a lateral direction.

According to certain aspects, the dome-shaped brush further comprises aninner dome, a plurality of bristles arranged circumferentially aroundthe inner dome, and a roller ball supported by a socket which is mountedon top of the inner dome.

According to certain aspects, the surface cleaning apparatus furthercomprises a rotatable joint, wherein the power head and the attachmenthead at a horizontal state are rotatable clockwisely by 90 degrees to avertical state using the rotatable joint.

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This Summary is not intended to identify key features oressential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended tobe used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subjectmatter. Other aspects and advantages of the present invention aredisclosed as illustrated by the embodiments hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The appended drawings contain figures to further illustrate and clarifythe above and other aspects, advantages, and features of the presentdisclosure. It will be appreciated that these drawings depict onlycertain embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended tolimit its scope. It will also be appreciated that these drawings areillustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily beendepicted to scale. The present disclosure will now be described andexplained with additional specificity and detail through the use of theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an outdoor surface cleaning apparatus ina first configuration in accordance with certain embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the handle of the outdoor surface cleaningapparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the auxiliary handle and the telescopicadjustment mechanism of the outdoor surface cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a front view of the front end of the outdoor surface cleaningapparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 5 is a front view of an internal construction of the front end(front of the housing removed) of the outdoor surface cleaning apparatusof FIG. 1 with the roller brush disassembled;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an internal construction of the frontend (roller brush and housing removed) of the outdoor surface cleaningapparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 7 is an exploded view showing the internal construction of the basepart and the brushing part (with the belt from the transmission assemblyincluded) of the outdoor surface cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional front view of the front end of the outdoorsurface cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 9 is a side view of the front end of the outdoor surface cleaningapparatus of FIG. 1 showing the internal construction of thetransmission assembly;

FIG. 10 is an end cap that can be assembled to cover the transmissionassembly of FIG. 9 ;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an internal construction of the frontend (end cap and front of the housing removed) of the outdoor surfacecleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of the rear end of the outdoorsurface cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 showing the mixing assembly and thewater inlet assembly;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the water inlet assembly;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an outdoor surface cleaning apparatusin a second configuration with the mixing assembly positioned at thetube assembly in accordance with certain embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 15 is a fragmentary perspective view of the handle of the outdoorsurface cleaning apparatus of FIG. 14 showing the water inlet assembly;

FIG. 16 is a side view of an alternative configuration of the rear endof the outdoor surface cleaning apparatus in accordance with certainembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is an exploded view of the mixing assembly positioned at thetube assembly of the outdoor surface cleaning apparatus of FIG. 14 ;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the front end of the outdoor surfacecleaning apparatus having a first configuration of the integratedbottle;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the front end of the outdoor surfacecleaning apparatus having a second configuration of the integratedbottle;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the front end (guard removed) of theoutdoor surface cleaning apparatus with a first configuration of thespray nozzles;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an internal construction of the frontend of the outdoor surface cleaning apparatus with a secondconfiguration of the spray nozzles;

FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of water and detergent;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the front end showing a side brushattachable to the outdoor surface cleaning apparatus of FIG. 14 ;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an outdoor surface cleaning apparatusin a third configuration with the mixing assembly positioned at the tubeassembly in accordance with certain embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 25 is a front view of the front end of the outdoor surface cleaningapparatus of FIG. 24 ;

FIG. 26 is an exploded view of the disc brush assembly of the outdoorsurface cleaning apparatus of FIG. 24 ;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the front end showing a circular sidebrush attachable to an outdoor surface cleaning apparatus in a fourthconfiguration in accordance with certain embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 28 is a front view of the front end of an outdoor surface cleaningapparatus of FIG. 27 with a dome-shaped brush attached;

FIG. 29 is a side view of the front end of an outdoor surface cleaningapparatus of FIG. 28 in a twisting head mode; and

FIG. 30 is a side view of an alternative configuration of thedome-shaped brush.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and isnot intended to limit the disclosure or its application and/or uses. Itshould be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist. Thedetailed description will enable those of ordinary skilled in the art toimplement an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure withoutundue experimentation, and it is understood that various changes ormodifications may be made in the function and structure described in theexemplary embodiment without departing from the scope of the presentdisclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3 , there is shown an outdoor surface cleaningapparatus 100 in a first configuration in accordance with certainembodiments. The apparatus 100 includes a handle 102 at the rear end100A, and a power head 104 and an attachment head at the front end 100B.A tube assembly 106 is arranged between the handle 102 and the powerhead 104. The tube assembly 106 defines a longitudinal axis A alongwhich the apparatus 100 generally extends. In certain embodiments, thetube assembly 106 is an elongated tube assembly formed by an inner tube106A and an outer tube 106B in slidable arrangement, with a clamp 106Ctherebetween for locking the inner and outer tubes 106A, 106B withrespect to each other. In other words, the tube assembly 106 is atelescopic tube assembly, the length of which can be adjusted to suitthe height of different users. In the first configuration, a first fluidinput and a second fluid input are positioned at the handle 102 forreceiving water and detergent respectively. The apparatus 100 comprisesan attachment head having a brush head 105 as a cleaning attachment. Ina second configuration as shown in FIG. 14 , the apparatus 10 maycomprise a first fluid input positioned at the handle 102 for receivingwater and a second fluid input positioned along the tube assembly 106for receiving detergent. The third configuration as shown in FIG. 24 issimilar to the second configuration, but the apparatus 10 comprises anattachment head having a disc brush assembly 400 as a cleaningattachment. In a fourth configuration as shown in FIG. 27 , a circularside brush 522 or a dome-shaped brush 523 is attachable to the apparatus10.

In certain embodiments, the power head 104 includes a long axis B thatextends generally horizontally and perpendicular to the longitudinalaxis A of the tube assembly 106. The power head 104 includes a motor anda gear transmission. The motor is arranged with a shaft orientedgenerally horizontally along the long axis B. In certain embodiments,the attachment head has a brush head 105, comprising roller brush 502,as a cleaning attachment. The brush head 105 may be arranged below thepower head 104 and the roller brush 502 is driven to rotate by the powerhead 104. In some examples, the roller brush 502 may advantageouslyinclude bristles arranged in different patterns, with different lengths,diameters, materials, and/or hardness, for example, alternatively alongone or both of the circumferential surface or the long axis of theroller brush 502, to provide an improved cleaning effect.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the handle 102 includes a hand grip portion 102Gthat extends generally rearwardly with respect to the tube assembly 106and the head 104. The hand grip portion 102G includes a trigger 108 anda speed control switch 102A. In certain embodiments, the handle 102further comprises a forward-reverse button to switch the rotationdirection of the roller brush 502. The base part of the hand gripportion 102G, i.e., the rear-most end of the handle 102, may include abase 103B with a battery receptacle for receiving a battery pack 103.The battery pack 103 is installed above the hose socket 322 of the waterinlet assembly 320, which can minimize the risk of water logging ofbattery by cleaning solution. The term “cleaning solution”, as usedherein, may include water, detergent, diluted detergent, alcohol, andother cleaning solvents. Electrical connections are arranged inside thehandle 102, the tube assembly 106, and the power head 104, forelectrically connecting the battery pack 103 with the motor in the powerhead 104. The apparatus 100 is preferably a cordless DC electricapparatus but it may alternatively be a corded AC electric apparatus ora hybrid AC-DC electric apparatus. The apparatus 100 can be operatedwith any number of battery packs 103. In one example, the apparatus 100is operated with an 18V lithium-based battery pack. The base part 102Bdefines a plane that is generally angled with respect to a verticalplane. Actuating the trigger 108 in the handle 102 activates the motorin the power head 104 and hence the brush head 105 is driven to rotate.The speed control switch 102A can adjust the rotational speed of theroller brush 502, and may reverse the direction of rotation of theroller brush 502 using the same switch or alternatively with a separatecontrol switch.

As shown in FIG. 3 , an auxiliary handle 110 is mounted to the tubeassembly 106 at a position between the clamp 106C and the handle 102. Incertain embodiments, the position of the auxiliary handle 110 may beadjustable along the tube assembly 106 or otherwise fixed thereon. Theauxiliary handle 110 is mounted to the tube assembly 106 using aU-shaped coupler 112 that surrounds the tube 106A and defines a mouthfor receiving a coupling part of the auxiliary handle 110. The U-shapedcoupler 112 and the coupling part of the auxiliary handle 110 includecorrespondingly aligned through-openings through which a knob 114extends. A nut 116 is used to tighten the mouth of the U-shaped coupler112 to clamp onto and secure the auxiliary handle 110. The auxiliaryhandle 110 is rotatable with respect to the tube assembly 106 about arotation axis C (defined by the knob 114) substantially transverse tothe longitudinal axis A of the tube assembly 106.

FIG. 4 shows the front end 100B of the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 . Thepower head 104 includes two lateral end portions 104A, 104B each may bearranged to be coupled with an attachment head having a cleaningattachment directly or indirectly. In the first configuration, theattachment head may comprise a brush head 105 connected to the powerhead 104 indirectly through a transmission assembly 500. Thetransmission assembly 500 is arranged to transfer the torque from thepower head 104 to the attachment head, wherein the attachment head isthe brush head 105 as the cleaning attachment. One of the lateral endportions 104A, 104B allows for mechanical coupling between the driveassembly in the power head 104 and the transmission assembly 500, whilethe other lateral end portion 104A, 104B may be covered by a side cover430. Each of the end portions 104A, 104B includes an engagementarrangement for releasably engaging with the corresponding engagementarrangement of the transmission assembly 500 or the side cover 430,which may be attached or detached thereto with or without using a tool.If the transmission assembly 500 is engaged to the right side of thepower head 104, the shaft from the drive assembly is arranged to extendhorizontally out from the left lateral end 104A, and the side cover 430is engaged to the left side of the power head 104. In other words, theleft lateral end portion 104A includes a coupling member arranged tocouple with the corresponding coupling member of the transmissionassembly 500. The drive assembly in the power head 104 is arranged tocouple with the transmission assembly 500, and the lower part of thetransmission assembly 500 is coupled to a first end of the brush head105 for driving the roller brush 502 in the brush head 105.

As viewed from the front of the apparatus 100, the power head 104 may becovered by a housing 431 having a plurality of ventilation openings 434.The plurality of ventilation openings 434 are characterized in thatwater ingress is prevented and the air ventilation is guaranteed toavoid overheat of the power head 104. In particular, each of theplurality of ventilation openings 434 is a gap suitably arranged on thehousing 431 for air inlet that runs horizontally towards the center lineof symmetry of the power head 104. In certain embodiments, theventilation openings 434 are at least partially covered by covers orwater shields.

FIG. 5 shows the internal construction of the front end 100B of theapparatus 100. The drive assembly of the power head 104 may include anytypes of prime movers, preferably a motor 201, with gear transmissionunit. The power head 104 includes coupling member for coupling with thecorresponding coupling member on the transmission assembly 500. Thedrive assembly of the power head 104 can be oriented differently, e.g.,with the motor shaft 201A extending at an angle to horizontal or evenvertically. In certain embodiments, electrical connection between thedrive assembly of the power head 104 and the transmission assembly 500may also be established as the mechanical connection is established.

As viewed from the front of the apparatus 100 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, a first end cap 432 of the transmission assembly 500 is coupled to theleft lateral end 104A of the power head 104 and a second end cap 433 ofthe side cover 430 is coupled to the right lateral end 104B of the powerhead 104. To connect the first end cap 432 of the transmission assembly500 to the power head 104, the user simply aligns the correspondingengagement features 506A, 506B on the power head 104 and the first endcap 432 of the transmission assembly 500, and then moves the first endcap 432 or the power head 104 relatively towards each other along themovement axis D such that the engagement features 506A, 506B engage. Inthis embodiment, the movement axis D is generally horizontal. Todisconnect the first end cap 432 of the transmission assembly 500 fromthe power head 104, the user simply disengages the engagement feature506A on the power head 104 from the engagement feature 506B on the firstend cap 432 of the transmission assembly 500, then moves the first endcap 432 of the transmission assembly 500 or the power head 104relatively away from each other along the movement axis D. The sameengagement features 506A, 506B are also provided in the second end cap433 for connecting to the power head 104. The shape and form ofengagement features 506A, 506B may vary, and the number of engagementfeatures 506A, 506B can be any number, preferably less than four on eachside.

As shown in FIG. 6 , the left lateral end 104A and the right lateral end104B may be extended down to the brush head 105 from the power head 104.A guard 512 is screwed between the left lateral end 104A and the rightlateral end 104B at least partially covering the brush head 105. Theshape and form of the guard 512 may vary but the guard 512 can generallybe any type of cover that at least partly surrounds the brush head 105to shield the power head 104 from materials that are dislodged from thesurface by agitation of the brush head 105. Some embodiments also allowthe guard 512 to be adjusted without having to use a tool. Thisarrangement further improves ease of use of the apparatus 100. Theengagement and rotation mechanism for the guard 512 may provide a clicksound (by material contact) to indicate movement of the guard 512. Theguard 512 may include two roller shafts 540A, 540B, both extendinggenerally parallel to the axis D and generally tapered towards theroller brush 502, to engage corresponding recesses 502R (shown in FIG. 7) in the roller brush 502. The roller brush 502 in this embodimentincludes radially extending bristles. A rubber squeegee 513 is attachedto and extended from the back side of the guard 512, which has anadjustable height for controlling the flow of cleaning solution on thefloor surface. The roller shafts 540A, 540B are respectively mounted ona left drive shaft 501A and the right drive shaft 501B, which can rotatealong an axis generally parallel to the axis D and extended along athrough-opening on the left lateral end 104A and the right lateral end104B. Nuts 552, 553 are used to respectively tighten the left driveshaft 501A and the right drive shaft 501B in position with respect tothe left lateral end 104A and the right lateral end 104B using O-rings503A, 503B.

Certain embodiments of the internal structure of the power head 104 areshown in FIGS. 6-8 . The motor 201 is fixed by a motor mount 202 and amotor housing 203 to secure the position of the motor 201 with respectto the housing 431 of the power head 104. The motor 201 may be anelectric powered brushed motor and the motor shaft 201A is driven torotate when the motor 201 is activated. The motor housing 203 has oneside engaged with the motor 201, and another side engaged with a firstplanetary carrier 210. The gear transmission unit, comprising aplurality of gears provided within a gearbox housing 204, is driven bythe motor shaft 201A of the motor 201. The plurality of gears isarranged to form a first layer of planetary gear 211 and a second layerof planetary gear 221. The first layer of planetary gear 211 is fixedlyconnected to the first planetary carrier 210, and engaged with the firstring gear 212 to form a first gear arrangement 231. The first geararrangement 231 is driven by the motor 201, and drives the second geararrangement 232. The second gear arrangement 232 comprises a second ringgear 222, the second layer of planetary gear 221, and a boss gear 223being concentric with a washer 205 which is engaged with the first layerof planetary gear 211 of the first gear arrangement 231. The boss gear223 drives the second layer of planetary gear 221, which is engaged withthe second ring gear 222. A first bearing 206 is provided within thegearbox housing 204 and in contact with the second layer of planetarygear 221. A drive shaft 514 is fit into an O-ring 207 and is driven bythe second gear arrangement 232 for driving the transmission assembly500.

As shown in FIGS. 7-9 , the drive shaft 514 has one end comprising aspindle 514A arranged to couple with a corresponding gear in the secondgear arrangement 232. The other end of the drive shaft 514 has one ormore dents, which is fixedly coupled to an upper pulley 550 on an upperpart of the transmission assembly 500. A nut 551 is used to secure theupper pulley 550 in position. A belt drive mechanism is arranged in thetransmission assembly 500. The belt drive mechanism is formed by theupper pulley 550 connected at one end of the drive shaft 514, acorresponding lower pulley 504 at a lower part of the transmissionassembly 500, and a belt 554 connecting the two pulleys 550, 504. Thelower part of the transmission assembly 500 is mechanically coupled to afirst end of the brush head 105. The lower pulley 504, being concentricwith the roller brush 502, is arranged to rotationally drive the rollerbrush 502 at a speed determined by the speed of the motor 201 throughthe first gear arrangement 231 and the second gear arrangement 232. Incertain embodiments, the belt 554 is a flat belt. The pulleys 550, 504may each include axial ribs. The spindle 514A is arranged to allowtransfer of torque from the second gear arrangement 232 to the driveshaft 514, and the drive shaft 514 is coupled to the upper pulley 550,hence the torque is transferred to the lower pulley 504 via the belt 554to drive the roller brush 502 into rotation. FIG. 10 shows an end cap432 that can be assembled to cover the transmission assembly 500. Inthis embodiment, the roller brush 502 is arranged to interact with theoutdoor surface to be or being cleaned. The drive assembly in the powerhead 104 and the transmission assembly 500 are provided to rotate theroller brush 502 at a desired speed.

In certain embodiments, the outdoor surface cleaning apparatus 100 canbe used as a patio cleaner having a spray mechanism with a cleaningsolution output at the front end 100B, which are capable of sprayingcleaning solution for cleaning purposes. The cleaning solution outputcan be in fluid communication with a first fluid input for receivingwater from an external water hose, such as a garden hose, and there isno built-in water tank. The cleaning solution output may also be influid communication with a second fluid input for receiving detergent.FIG. 11 shows a first configuration of the apparatus 100 illustratinghow the cleaning solution is discharged. The hose 312 is an externaltube for transporting cleaning solution, which is distributed to a sidenozzle 301 and a brush nozzle 302. The hose 312 can have an innerdiameter in a range between 5 mm and 15 mm, or in a range between 7 mmand 12 mm. The outer diameter of the hose 312 can be in a range between9 mm and 18 mm, or in a range between 10.5 mm and 16 mm. In certainembodiments, the hose has an inner diameter of 7 mm and an outerdiameter of 10.5 mm, the flow rate of water is 0.35 L/s, and the flowrate of diluted detergent (water and detergent mixed) is 0.14 L/s. Thebrush nozzle 302 is a sprayer, which may be positioned outside theshield 512 or alternatively within the shield 512 and above the cleaningattachment, such as the brush head 105. The brush nozzle 302 isconfigured to spray cleaning solution onto a surface in front of thecleaning attachment or directly to the cleaning attachment. The sidenozzle 301 may not be firmly fixed on the front end 100B, and the angleof water jet from the side nozzle 301 may be adjustable. The side nozzle301 is configured to spray cleaning solution onto a contact surface infront of the cleaning attachment, such as the brush head 105, or theadjacent surface such that cleaning solution can be discharged on thesurface before the surface comes in contact with the cleaningattachment.

The spray mechanism can further comprise a mixing assembly 330 and awater inlet assembly 320. As shown in FIG. 12 , the rear end 100A of theapparatus 100 includes the battery 103, the handle 102, the mixingassembly 330, and the water inlet assembly 320. The handle 102 isconnected to the mixing assembly 300 and the water inlet assembly 320 atthe bottom. Both the mixing assembly 330 and the water inlet assembly320 are enclosed within a housing 323. At one end of the housing 323,the water inlet assembly 320 as a first fluid input is provided,comprising a hose dock 322 and a control panel 324. The hose dock 322 isa quick release dock configured for coupling with and receiving anexternal water hose, and is coupled to a control panel 324 having valvesfor controlling the water input and the mixing of detergent. The mixingassembly 300 and a second fluid input comprising a detergent dock 321are provided at a bottom side of the housing 323, which are in fluidcommunication with the first fluid input for mixing the water from theexternal water hose with the detergent from the second fluid input. Theoutput of the mixing assembly 300 is in fluid communication with acleaning solution output. The detergent dock 321 is configured forattaching a detergent bottle 350 thereto. A straw 333 extends out fromthe detergent dock 321 and into the detergent bottle 350, with the tipof the straw 333 at the bottom of the detergent bottle 350 for receivingthe detergent. As shown in FIG. 13 , an exemplary implementation of thewater inlet assembly 320 is depicted. The hose dock 322 is directlyconnected to the control panel 324 such that the amount of waterentering the mixing assembly 300 from the external water hose can becontrolled. The control panel 324 comprises a lever 324D that isrotatable along the circumference of the control panel 324 for selectinga mode of operation. When the lever 324D is set to the center position324B, the valve for the hose dock 322 is closed and a waterless mode isselected. When the lever 324D is rotated up to “W” position 324C forselecting a water only mode, the valve for the hose dock 322 is openedand only water is flown into the mixing assembly 300 for discharge atthe side nozzle 301 and the brush nozzle 302. When the lever 324D isrotated down to “W+D” position 324A for selecting a diluted detergentmode, the valves for the hose dock 322 and the detergent dock 321 areopened, thereby allowing water and detergent to be mixed in the mixingassembly 300. Diluted detergent is distributed through the side nozzle301 and the brush nozzle 302. In certain embodiments, the control panel324 may be electrically powered and the lever 324D is replaced by one ormore electric switches.

FIG. 14 shows the outdoor surface cleaning apparatus 100 in a secondconfiguration with a detergent dock 321 and a respective mixing assembly330 positioned along the tube assembly 106, and a water inlet assembly320 positioned at the front part of the handle 102. The first fluidinput is positioned at the handle 102 for receiving water from anexternal water hose, whereas the second fluid input comprising adetergent dock 321 is positioned along the tube assembly 106 forreceiving detergent. On the first fluid input, the hose dock 322 of thewater inlet assembly 320 is in fluid communication with the controlpanel 324, and both are enclosed within a housing 323, as shown in moredetails in FIG. 15 .

In certain embodiments, the physical position of the battery 103 and thewater inlet assembly 320 may be swapped, as shown in the alternativeconfiguration of the apparatus 100 in FIG. 16 . The base part of thehand grip portion 102G, i.e., the rear-most end of the handle 102, isconnected to the water inlet assembly 320. The front part of the handle102, i.e. opposite to the hand grip portion 102G, includes a base 103Bwith a battery receptacle for receiving a battery pack 103. The batterypack 103 may be enclosed in a waterproof battery cover, such as IPX5 orIPX6, as the hose 321 for transferring water from the water inletassembly 320 may travel within the handle 102 proximate to the batterypack 103.

FIG. 17 shows an exploded view of the mixing assembly 330 and a secondfluid input positioned along the tube assembly 106 of the apparatus 100.A detergent mount 106D is detachably mounted to the tube assembly 106.In certain embodiments, the detergent mount 106D is fastened on the tubeassembly 106 at the same position as the clamp 106C. The mixing assembly330 is mounted on the detergent mount 106D, comprising a venturi tube340 with a contraction section 340A, a diffusion section 340B, and athroat section 340C. The contraction section 340A is connected to afirst hose, which is in fluid communication with the water inletassembly 320, and may be hidden within the inner tube 106A. Thediffusion section 340B is connected to a second hose, which is in fluidcommunication with the cleaning solution output at the front end 100Bfor discharging the cleaning solution. The second hose may be hiddenwithin the outer tube 106B. The diffusion section 340B may be connectedto, or otherwise comprise, a check valve 341 (not shown in the FIG. 17). The venturi tube 340 makes use of venturi effect to draw detergentout from the detergent bottle 350 and, via the throat section 340C, mixthe detergent with the water flowing through the venturi tube 340. Thethroat section 340C is connected to a coupler 327 and a straw holder325. A spring 326 is also provided within the detergent dock 321, suchthat the straw 333 can be released from the straw holder 325 by pressingthe detergent dock 321 towards the detergent mount 106D.

FIGS. 18 and 19 show two configurations of the mixing assembly 330 usingan integrated tank 331 arranged in-line with the outer tube 106B of thetube assembly 106. A transparent window is provided on the wall of theintegrated tank 331 with volume indicators. The first configuration ofthe mixing assembly 330 is depicted in FIG. 18 with a hinged cap andstopper 332A at the top of the integrated tank 331. Detergent isrefilled into the integrated tank 331 through the opening 334A, anddetergent is drawn out from the integrated tank 331 via a straw 333 byventuri effect. In the second configuration of the mixing assembly 330shown in FIG. 19 , the hinged cap and stopper 332B are provided at thefront side. The opening 334B is provided on the front side. With bothconfigurations, the detergent is poured into the integrated tank 331 andthere is no limitation on the compatibility of the detergent bottle 350for attaching to the detergent dock 321.

In certain embodiments, the mixing of the detergent and water can alsobe achieved using gravitational force or a pump without departing fromthe spirit of the present disclosure. For example, a connection tube maybe arranged at the bottom-most end of the detergent bottle 350 or theintegrated tank 331, such that the detergent flows downwardly bygravitational force to mix with the water using a Y-shape connector. Inanother example, the pumping mechanism is provided to draw the detergentout of the detergent bottle 350 or the integrated tank 331 through thestraw 333. The pumping power is adjustable for controlling the amount ofdetergent needed. The detergent pumped out is then mixed with the waterusing a Y-shape connector.

FIG. 20 shows the first configuration of the spray mechanism at thefront end 100B of the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 . The hose 312 is anexternal tube for transporting cleaning solution, which is distributedto a side nozzle 301 and a brush nozzle 302. The brush nozzle 302 isconfigured to spray cleaning solution onto a surface in front of theroller brush 502 or directly to the roller brush 502. The side nozzle301 is configured to spray cleaning solution onto a contact surface ofthe roller brush 502, or the adjacent surface to the roller brush 502such that cleaning solution can be discharged the surface beforecontacting the surface with the roller brush 502.

FIG. 21 shows the second configuration of the spray mechanism at thefront end 100B of the apparatus 100. A water hose 313 and a diluteddetergent hose 314 are respectively used for transporting water anddiluted detergent, which is distributed to a discharging bar 303. Boththe water hose 313 and the diluted detergent hose 314 are hidden withinthe tube assembly 106. The discharging bar 303 has holes arrangedhorizontally along the longitudinal length of the discharging bar 303,such that the cleaning solution may be discharged to the roller brush502.

FIG. 22 is a simplified schematic diagram illustrating the flow of waterand detergent in the apparatus 100. The hose dock 322 is a quick releasedock configured for coupling with and receiving an external water hose.The hose dock 322 is directly coupled to a control panel 324 havingvalves for controlling the water input and the mixing of detergent. Thecontrol panel 324 provides two outlet ports 324E, 324F. The first outletport 324E is coupled to a first inlet port of a Y-shape connector 342for transporting water. The second outlet port 324F is coupled to thecontraction section 340A of the venturi tube 340. The venturi tube 340makes use of venturi effect to draw detergent into the venturi tube 340via the throat section 340C, such that the detergent and the water aremixed to obtain diluted detergent. The diffusion section 340B is coupledto a check valve 341 and a second inlet port of the Y-shape connector342 for transporting the diluted detergent to the front end 100B. Whenthe control panel 324 is switched to “W”, the water from the hose dock322 is directed to the first outlet port 324E. Therefore, the Y-shapeconnector 342 receives water for discharge. When the control panel 324is switched to “W+D”, the water from the hose dock 322 is directed tothe second outlet port 324F. Therefore, the water is mixed with thedetergent at the venturi tube 340, and the Y-shape connector 342receives the diluted detergent for discharge.

FIG. 23 shows a side brush 521 attachable to a side of the front end100B that is generally perpendicular to an axis of rotation of theroller brush 502. In another word, as viewed from the front of theapparatus 100, the side brush 521 is coupled to the left lateral end ofthe transmission assembly 500, or to the right lateral end of the sidecover 430. To attach the side brush 521, the user simply aligns the sidebrush 521 and the transmission assembly 500 or the side cover 430, andmoves the side brush 521 or the apparatus 100 relatively towards eachother. Velcro may be used to secure the side brush 521. To detach theside brush 521, the user simply pulls the side brush 521 out from anyside to separate the side brush 521 from the apparatus 100. The sidebrush 521 provides a brush in the lateral direction for scrubbing thesurface of a wall, or the riser of a stair.

FIG. 24 shows an outdoor surface cleaning apparatus 100 in a thirdconfiguration, comprising a power head 104, a disc brush assembly 400,and a wheel assembly 450. The power head 104 includes two lateral endportions 104A, 104B each may be arranged to be coupled with anattachment head having a cleaning attachment directly. The attachmenthead may comprise a disc brush assembly 400 as the cleaning attachment.The disc brush assembly 400 is driven by the drive assembly in the powerhead 104. On the front of the power head 104, a cleaning solution output(front nozzle 304) may be provided for discharging the cleaningsolution. The wheel assembly 450 is attached to right lateral endportion 104B of the power head 104, and the disc brush assembly 400 isattached to left lateral end portion 104A. As viewed from the front ofthe apparatus 100, as shown in FIG. 25 , the disc brush assembly 400 iscoupled to the left end of the power head 104, and the wheel assembly450 is coupled to the right end of the power head 104. To connect thedisc brush assembly 400, the user simply aligns the correspondingengagement features on the power head 104 and the disc brush assembly400, and then moves the disc brush assembly 400 or the power head 104relatively towards each other. To disconnect the disc brush assembly400, the user simply disengages the engagement features on the powerhead 104 and the disc brush assembly 400, then move the disc brushassembly 400 or the power head 104 relatively away from each other. Incertain embodiments, the power head 104 is arranged to couple with thedisc brush 402 in the disc brush assembly 400 to drive the disc brush402. The wheel assembly 450 can be mounted similarly, but from the otherside of the power head 104, and with or without driving connectionbetween the wheel 451 and the power head 104.

FIG. 26 illustrates, in more detail, the construction of the disc brushassembly 400. The disc brush assembly 400 includes a housing formed bytwo housing parts 404A, 404B. The first housing part 404A is formounting the actuator 406 and the second housing part 404B is formounting the disc brush 402. A guard or cover 412 for the disc brush 402is attached to the second housing part 404B to which the disc brush 402mounts. The two housing parts 404A, 404B define aligned through-holesthrough which the spindle 414 extends. Bearings 420, 421 are provided inthe housing for supporting rotation of the spindle 414 about the axis E.The spindle 414 includes at both ends, keyed surfaces 414C, 414C'. Oneend 414C of the spindle 414 away from the disc brush 402 is for couplingwith a drive shaft 514 in the power head 104. The other end 414C' of thespindle 414 is for coupling with a disc brush support sleeve 422 (aninner flange). This end 414C' of the spindle 414 also defines an openingfor removably (e.g., threadedly) receiving a hex key head 426. Thespindle 414 is generally long and cylindrical, but has a portion 4140with opposed flat surfaces defining an obround cross section. Thedisc-like disc brush 402 is arranged to be mounted on an axiallyextending cylindrical part of the support sleeve 422. An outer discmember 424 (outer flange) is arranged on the opposite side of the discbrush 402. The hex key head 426 rotatably supports the disc brush 402between the inner and outer flanges 422, 424. A spindle lockingmechanism is arranged in the housing. The spindle locking mechanism isformed by a spindle lock button 416 protruding from the housing, aspindle lock plate 428 biased by a compression spring 429A supported bya supporting flange 429B in the second housing part 404B. The spindlelock plate 428 defines an opening 428O with an upper portion and a lowerportion of different sizes. The upper portion is sized to correspond to(e.g., slightly larger than) the short axis of the obround portion 4140and is smaller than the long axis of the obround portion 4140, while thelower portion is sized to correspond to the long axis of the obroundportion 4140 (also the diameter of the remaining cylindrical portion).The spindle lock assembly is used for facilitating replacement orremoval of the disc brush 402. To remove the disc brush 402, the userhas to actuate the spindle lock actuator 416, depress it such that theupper portion of the opening on the spindle lock plate surrounds theobround portion 4140. In this way, the spindle 414 cannot rotate as theupper portion of the opening 428O is sized smaller than a long axis ofthe obround portion 4140. When the actuator 416 is actuated, the usercan use a hex key to engage with and rotate the hex key head 426, torelease the hex key head 426 from the spindle 414, thereby removing orreplacing the disc brush 402, or the inner and outer flanges 422, 424,if needed.

FIGS. 27 and 28 show the front end 100B of an outdoor surface cleaningapparatus 100 in a fourth configuration, comprising a power head 104, atransmission assembly 500, a brush head 105, and a circular side brush522 or a dome-shaped brush 523. The front end 100B of the apparatus 100is in a cantilever configuration, therefore the power head 104 includesonly one lateral end portion 104A arranged to be coupled with anattachment head having a cleaning attachment (brush head 105 and theattached circular side brush 522 or dome-shaped brush 523) indirectlythrough the transmission assembly 500. The transmission assembly 500 ismechanically coupled to the left lateral end portion 104A of the powerhead 104 and the brush head 105. The drive assembly in the power head104 is arranged to couple with the transmission assembly 500, and thelower part of the transmission assembly 500 is coupled to a first end ofthe brush head 105 for driving the roller brush 502 in the brush head105. The apparatus is in a cantilever configuration having thetransmission assembly 500 for connecting the power head 104 and thebrush head 105. In certain embodiments, the power head 104 may include arotary knob 436, which is provided on an opposite side to thetransmission assembly 500 for adjusting the flow of the cleaningsolution. The rotary knob 436 may control a valve on the hose 312, whichis configured to control the flow rate from fully open to fully closed.The cleaning solution output may include one or more front nozzles 304and a side nozzle 305. In certain embodiments, a nozzle selector 435 mayalso be provided. The nozzle selector 435 is a slider for selectingbetween the front nozzles 304 (or the brush nozzle 302) and the sidenozzle 305.

Referring to FIG. 27 , a circular side brush 522 is attached to anengagement end 501C on a second end of the brush head 105, which iscoupled to the right drive shaft 501B for transferring the torque fromthe transmission assembly 500. Therefore, when the roller brush 502 isdriven to rotate by the power head 104, the circular side brush 522 isalso rotated with the same speed. Unlike the prior configurations havingsymmetric design of the left and right lateral end portions 104A, 104B,the fourth configuration has asymmetric design of the left and rightlateral end portions 104C, 104D. The right lateral end portion 104D hasan opening to receive the shaft of the roller brush 502 and allows theshaft to pass through for receiving the circular side brush 522. Bearingis also provided to allow the shaft to rotate relative to the rightlateral end portion 104D. The right lateral end portion 104D canincrease the bending strength of the roller brush so that the rightlateral end portion 104D would not bend towards the power head 104during use. To connect the circular side brush 522 to the engagement end501C, the user simply aligns the circular side brush 522 and theengagement end 501C, and then moves the circular side brush 522 or theapparatus 100 relatively towards each other. The engagement of theengagement end 501C and the circular side brush 522 may provide a clicksound (by material contact) to indicate that the engagement issuccessful. Referring to FIG. 28 , a dome-shaped brush 523 is attachedto the second end of the brush head 105, such that the dome-shaped brush523 is also driven to rotate by the power head 104 when the roller brush502 rotates. By using the circular side brush 522 or the dome-shapedbrush 523, a user can easily brush a surface in a lateral direction,which is particularly useful for cleaning the surface of a wall, or theriser 11 of a stair 10. The circular side brush 522 may be a wire brush.The circular side brush 522 may also be a disc-like blade.

FIGS. 28 and 29 show a twisting head mechanism of the front end 100B ofthe apparatus 100. A rotatable joint 440 may be provided between thefront end 100B and the tube assembly 106. As view from the front of theapparatus 100 as shown in FIG. 28 , the front end 100B at a horizontalstate is rotatable clockwisely by 90 degrees to a vertical state usingthe rotatable joint 440, which is demonstrated in FIG. 29 . When thefront end 100B is twisted, the side nozzle 305 can effectively dischargecleaning solution to the circular side brush 522 or the dome-shapedbrush 523. In certain embodiments, the dome-shaped brush 523 furthercomprises an inner dome, a plurality of bristles 523C arrangedcircumferentially around the inner dome 523B, and a roller ball 523Asupported by a socket which is mounted on the top of the inner dome523B. In an alternative embodiment as shown in FIG. 30 , the socket andthe roller ball 523A are extended out by an arm 523D having a lengthlonger than the length of a bristle 523C, thereby the arm 523D canproject the roller ball 523A out from the center of the inner dome 523B.The dome-shaped brush 523 allows brushing of a lateral surface when theapparatus 100 is at a horizontal state, or a horizontal surface when theapparatus 100 is at a vertical state.

The outdoor surface cleaning apparatus 100 may take different shapes andforms. For example, the outdoor surface cleaning apparatus 100 mayinclude any number of handles 102. The battery receptacle may bearranged away from the handle 102, e.g., on the power head 104. The tubeassembly 106 connecting between the handle 102 and the power head 104may not be adjustable. The clamp 106C may be omitted. The handle 102need not be arranged at the top-most end of the apparatus 100, and neednot extend rearwardly. The auxiliary handle 110 may be fixedly connectedto the tube assembly 106, or may even be omitted. The auxiliary handle110 may not be adjustable with respect to the tube assembly 106. Thepower head 104 may include more than one motor 201. The roller brush502, the circular side brush 522, or the dome-shaped brush 523 may havedifferent shape and form. For example, the roller brush 502 may includeany brittles arrangement.

This illustrates the fundamental structure and mechanism of the outdoorsurface cleaning apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure. Itis apparent that the present disclosure may be embodied in other typesof outdoor surface cleaning apparatus without departing from the spiritor essential characteristics thereof. The present embodiment is,therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and notrestrictive. The scope of the disclosure is indicated by the appendedclaims rather than by the preceding description, and all changes thatcome within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims aretherefore intended to be embraced therein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A surface cleaning apparatus, comprising: ahandle; a power head with a prime mover; an attachment head having acleaning attachment; and a spray mechanism having a first fluid input, asecond fluid input, and a cleaning fluid output, the spray mechanismcomprises a mixing assembly in fluid communication with the first fluidinput, the second fluid input, and the cleaning solution output.
 2. Thesurface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the cleaning solutionoutput comprises at least a brush nozzle and a side nozzle; the brushnozzle is configured to spray cleaning solution onto a surface in frontof the cleaning attachment or directly onto the cleaning attachment; andthe side nozzle is configured to spray cleaning solution onto thesurface in front of the cleaning attachment or an adjacent surface. 3.The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cleaning solutionoutput comprises at least a discharging bar having holes arrangedhorizontally along a longitudinal length of the discharging bar, therebycleaning solution is discharged to the cleaning attachment.
 4. Thesurface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first fluid input isa water inlet assembly comprising a hose dock and a control panel. 5.The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 4, wherein the control panelfurther comprises a lever that is rotatable along a circumference of thecontrol panel for selecting between a waterless mode, a water only mode,or a diluted detergent mode.
 6. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim1, wherein the mixing assembly is positioned at the handle.
 7. Thesurface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second fluid inputfurther comprises a detergent dock configured for attaching a detergentbottle.
 8. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mixingassembly is positioned along a tube assembly, wherein the tube assemblyis arranged between the handle and the power head.
 9. The surfacecleaning apparatus of claim 8, wherein: the mixing assembly furthercomprises an integrated tank arranged in-line with the tube assembly; atransparent window is provided on a wall of the integrated tank withvolume indicators; and a hinged cap and a stopper are provided at top ofthe integrated tank or at front side of the integrated tank.
 10. Thesurface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the mixing assemblyfurther comprises a venturi tube having a contraction section, adiffusion section, and a throat section; the contraction section iscoupled to a first hose connecting to the first fluid input; thediffusion section is coupled to a second hose connecting to the cleaningfluid output; and the throat section is configured to draw detergentfrom the second fluid input using venturi effect, thereby water flowingthrough the venturi tube is mixed with the detergent to obtain diluteddetergent.
 11. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 10, wherein thesecond hose has an inner diameter in a range between 7 mm and 12 mm, andan outer diameter in a range between 10.5 mm and 16 mm.
 12. The surfacecleaning apparatus of claim 10, wherein: the control panel furthercomprises valves, and two outlet ports; the first outlet port is coupledto a first inlet port of a Y-shape connector for transporting water; andthe second outlet port is coupled to a second inlet port of the Y-shapeconnector via the venturi tube and a check valve.
 13. The surfacecleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cleaning attachment is atleast partially covered by a guard arranged between a left lateral endportion and a right lateral end portion of the power head.
 14. Thesurface cleaning apparatus of claim 13, wherein the guard is attached toa rubber squeegee that is extended from a back side of the guard with anadjustable height for controlling a flow of cleaning solution on asurface.
 15. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 furthercomprising a rotary knob for adjusting a flow of cleaning solution. 16.The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a sidebrush attachable to a side of the cleaning attachment that isperpendicular to an axis of rotation of the cleaning attachment, therebythe side brush allows brushing of a surface in a lateral direction. 17.The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cleaningattachment comprises a brush head and a circular side brush attachableto the brush head, which is coupled to the power head for transferring atorque such that the circular side brush allows brushing of a surface ina lateral direction.
 18. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1,wherein the cleaning attachment comprises a brush head and a dome-shapedbrush attachable to the brush head, which is coupled to the power headfor transferring a torque such that the dome-shaped brush allowsbrushing of a surface in a lateral direction.
 19. The surface cleaningapparatus of claim 18, wherein the dome-shaped brush further comprisesan inner dome, a plurality of bristles arranged circumferentially aroundthe inner dome, and a roller ball supported by a socket which is mountedon top of the inner dome.
 20. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1further comprising a rotatable joint, wherein the power head and theattachment head at a horizontal state are rotatable clockwisely by 90degrees to a vertical state using the rotatable joint.
 21. The surfacecleaning apparatus of claim 20, wherein the cleaning attachmentcomprises a brush head and a dome-shaped brush attachable to the brushhead, which is coupled to the power head for transferring a torque suchthat the dome-shaped brush allows brushing of a lateral surface when theapparatus is at the horizontal state, or a horizontal surface when theapparatus is at the vertical state.
 22. The surface cleaning apparatusof claim 21, wherein the dome-shaped brush further comprises an innerdome, a plurality of bristles arranged circumferentially around theinner dome, and a roller ball supported by a socket which is mounted ontop of the inner dome.